Sorry, this episode is only available to Registered Users

Hurricane Irma Turns Into Category 5

Favorite

The U.S. National Hurricane Center declared that Hurricane Irma has turned into a Category 5 hurricane with dangerous winds of 175mph. It’s expected to hit the northeastern Caribbean and Puerto Rico.

Irma is approaching Antigua and Barbuda and may arrive late Tuesday or early Wednesday before hitting the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by Wednesday afternoon. It could possibly head for Cuba and the southeastern US mainlands, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. However it is too early to predict where exactly the hurricane will hit.

On Monday, the governor of Puerto Rico declared a state of emergency and set up the National Guard. The storm could drop 10 inches of rain, causing dangerous floods and landslides. There were long lines in stores to buy batteries, flashlights, and extra food and water. Many residents are concerned about losing power. It could take weeks or months to repair because of its vulnerable system and shortage of staff.

At the same time, in Florida, Governor Rick Scott declared a state emergency for the state’s 67 counties.